2 Samuel 20:1-26

The occasion invariably finds the man for evil as well as for good. Sheba seized the strife between Judah and Israel as an opportunity to attempt to divide the kingdom.

David's hosts went forth against Israel. Once more Joab appears on the scene, and the same relentless ferocity was manifested in his murder of Amasa, coupled with continued loyalty to David, as he proceeded to quell the insurrection.

This was accomplished through the wisdom of a woman by the death of Sheba. Thus David was restored to his true position, and the story ends with the new appointment of officers of state. Joab retained the position of commander-in-chief, having ensured this position by the murder of Amasa. Benaiah was appointed over the bodyguard of the king. Adoram was made the national treasurer. Jehoshaphat became the chronicler, or historian. Sheva was appointed scribe, or secretary of state. Zadok and Abiathar continued in the priesthood, and Ira was made the king's priest, or chief minister.